The Shakti Gymnast

No one likes doing things that are hard or uncomfortable... with maybe the exception of David Goggins. So why even think about doing things that challenge us mentally? Why not do what makes us feel warm and comfy inside? Here are your reasons:   1. Mental Toughness is Preparation for the Future Being able to tolerate difficult experiences that challenge the mind prepares us for the future. When we complete a challenging task without breaking, we will come through being more wise about how to conquer our own mind. This also means that we will become more aware of how we react to and tackle challenges. One can then analyze his/her approach and ponder how to improve tackling mentally difficult tasks. By continuously facing difficult circumstances and building mental toughness, in the future, one can become unfazed with a task that is seemingly difficult to most. And when tasks arise that the majority are unable to complete due to being mentally weak, the person who had been preparing ment

In general, most people have heard of gymnastics. It's a common sport that's entertaining to watch and fun to do. If you're looking to learn more about gymnastics, this is the read for you. This is an overview of Women's Artistic Gymnastics:  The Level System The levels for the US Junior Olympics range from 2-10. After Level 10 there is Elite Compulsory and then Elite. Levels 2-5 are Compulsory and they have set routines that all gymnasts must perform in order to move up levels. Levels 6-10 are called Optional and the routines vary, but the skill set must be in accordance with the USAG guidelines in order for the routine to start at a 10.0. Each skill is assigned a letter and the same skill can vary in letter from event to event. For example, a switch half on beam is a 'D', but on floor it is an 'C'. In order to start from a 10.0, the gymnast must have all of the skill requirements.  However, in level 9 and 10, even if the gymnasts has all of the require

I believe what and when an athlete eats before a workout, practice, or competition has an effect on performance. It's important to eat easily-digestible whole foods that will provide the athlete with energy before a workout. As a vegan and recently gluten-free athlete, here are some of my favorite pre-workout snacks and foods that fuel me and provide me with energy before I workout: 1. Dates Dates are high in carbs and fiber. Carbohydrates will provide energy, while fiber allows the food to easily digest after eating, so you can feel a boost in energy right away. I like Joolies Dates  because they are organic, pitted, and have no-sugar added.  If you're looking for a snack with more calories, try cutting the date open and spreading nut butter inside.  2. Figs Like dates, figs are an excellent source of fiber and carbs. I recommend getting dried figs. My favorite figs are from Nutra-Figs . Unfortunately, they aren't organic, but they are kosher and no sugar is added.  3. App